Bundaberg YACCA

Philosophy & Vision

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE YMCA OF BUNDABERG

The YMCAs of Australia work together, from a base of Christian values, to provide opportunities for all people to grow in body, mind and spirit.

Characteristics of the area in which we work

Bundaberg is located in a gorgeous spot in Queensland! The Great Barrier Reef is off the coast and it is a great spot for swimming, surfing and all kinds of sports. The population within the Bundaberg region is growing at a faster rate than most Queensland centres but we have a high percentage of aged people. Unemployment is an issue faced by the young people of the region. The young people with whom we work are aged between 10 and 18 and range from primary school aged children, high school students and young people who are involved in the Youth Justice system.

Activities and services that we provide

The purpose of YACCA in Bundaberg is to prevent vulnerable young people from becoming involved in the youth justice system and to intervene in identified youth crime problems within the Bundaberg community.
YACCA in Bundaberg provides the following services and activities:
• Individual assessments with a tailor-made program to suit the individual
• Goal setting and action plans for success
• Information and advice
• Personal support
• Individual advocacy
• Mutual support and self help
• Social skills development
• Self-esteem building and self-discovery
• Life skills development
• Cultural identity development and/or support
• Access to recreation and leisure
• Access to education/training and/or employment
• Creative expression and art projects
• Parent/carer support
• Referral and support to access other services.
Many group programs were held during 2009 including:
• An Introduction to YACCA
• Goal Setting
• Self-esteem
• Resilience
• Life Skills
• Girlz Time
The aim of all programs and group work is that young people develop the skills and knowledge for positive social interaction and community living.

Our model of service delivery

YACCA in Bundaberg works with young people aged 10 to 18 focussing on early intervention and prevention, particularly children aged 10 to 12 in the primary schools.
YACCA aims to link the participant with the community so that a sense of belonging, acceptance and value is developed.

Recent Outcomes

A successful Christmas Holiday Program was held during December 2009 and January 2010. The aim was to:
(1) keep young people occupied with fun, healthy activities during each day, and
(2) reduce crime and keep young people off the street.
Some of the activities included: surfing (always popular!), laser tag, ten pin bowling, swimming, going to the theatre, art and craft, boot camp drills, swimming at the beach, movies and pizza, sports, and a photo project. The program was deemed a success by all involved.

 

Recent Community Development projects

YACCA facilitates a Community Action Group for the purpose of discussing the issue of youth crime and to look at effective ways of decreasing crime in Bundaberg. Those who attend include:
• School-based Police Officers
• District Crime Prevention Coordinator (QPS)
• Senior Community Crime Prevention Officer (QPS)
• Youth Justice, Youth Development Officer (Regional Council)
• The Senior Guidance Officer.
Youth issues currently being tackled include:
• The Year 7 to 8 transition and retention rate
• The best ways of engaging parents and carers of youth at risk
• The need to focus on prevention and early intervention with primary school aged children.
YACCA in Bundaberg uses the resources and facilities of the YMCA to provide opportunities for young people to grow in body, mind and spirit.